1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 1997 Skoda Octavia is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Skoda Octavia. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 280 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Skoda Octavia (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1997 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Lotus | Skoda |
| Model | Elan | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
